Six to stand trial for rape of US scientist

 By JAYNE SAFIHAO

THE committal court in Madang has committed the six men charged with the rape of an American scientist on Karkar Island to the National Court.

Provincial police commander Sylvester Kalaut yesterday confirmed the committal, saying that the six – Muluk Pahaluan, Kadamon Nanu, Lewi Siam, Kabian Lod, Timothy Damusuk and Kulem Kisom – all in their 20s, appeared for mention in court and are now awaiting a trial date.

Last year in April the six had ambushed the female scientist, her male partner and local porters at the foot of a hill near their Gamog village.

It was reported that the males were tied up, while some managed to escape and alerted villagers when the incident happened.

The six have been charged with armed robbery, sexual penetration, deprivation of liberty and abduction, with each facing multiple charges.